Darnell Mayberry: Why Russell Westbrook made Team USA

In a matter of days, Russell Westbrook went from on the bubble for a roster spot on Team USA to a guaranteed place as one of 12 members that will represent the United States in the 2010 FIBA World Championship, which begins Saturday.

Thunder guard Russell Westbrook will play on Team USA in the FIBA World Championships in Turkey. AP PHOTO

Boston point guard Rajon Rondo on Tuesday became the final player to leave the team, citing family reasons according to the official release by USA Basketball. His unexpected departure assured that the Thunder will be the only team with two players, Westbrook and Kevin Durant, on this summer's roster.

We've known since the beginning that Durant would be a lock for the team. But here are five things that put Westbrook over the top.

Defense: Westbrook's ability to be a pest both on the ball and in the passing lanes is expected to bring great value to the team. Westbrook also can pressure the ball the entire length of the court, and with his long arms and athleticism he is a luxury to have in half-court zone sets, which Team USA likely will utilize often. Rondo might be a better defender than Westbrook today, but Westbrook isn't far behind, and he offers a combination of enough other skills to warrant a spot.

Rebounding: With a shortage of big men, Team USA has placed a premium on rebounding from the guard position. And Westbrook is the team's best rebounding guard. Rondo has had incredible rebounding performances during the NBA regular season and postseasons. But Westbrook is a better offensive rebounder. He led all guards with 1.7 offensive rebounds per game last season, and that ability will give Team USA second chances throughout the World Championship.

Shooting: Since the start of training camp last month, the coaching staff made it a point to flood the court with shooters. Of the remaining 13 players, Rondo and Westbrook were the least skilled perimeter shooters at the guard spots. But Westbrook is a better midrange shooter than Rondo, and Westbrook also is a much better free throw shooter. If Team USA ever has to clinch a win at the free throw line, Rondo would have been a liability, whereas Westbrook should be far less of a concern.

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Darnell Mayberry grew up in Langston, Okla. and is now in his third stint in the Sooner state. After a year and a half at Bishop McGuinness High, he finished his prep years in Falls Church, Va., before graduating from Norfolk State University in...